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Japanese Mystery Mastermind Keigo Higashino Dies at 68
28 Jul
Summary
- Renowned Japanese novelist Keigo Higashino passed away from colorectal cancer.
- He authored 106 novels, selling approximately 109 million copies in Japan.
- His works were translated into 41 countries and adapted into films and TV.

Keigo Higashino, the celebrated Japanese novelist renowned for his bestselling mystery novels, passed away on July 23, 2026, at the age of 68 due to colorectal cancer. His publisher confirmed the news on July 29, 2026, noting that his funeral was held privately. Higashino's prolific career spanned over four decades, during which he penned 106 novels.
His literary achievements include selling approximately 109 million copies in Japan and achieving international recognition with his books published in 41 countries and regions. Many of his popular titles, such as "Journey Under the Midnight Sun" and the "Detective Galileo" series, were successfully adapted into films and television dramas.
Works like "The Devotion of Suspect X" garnered significant acclaim, leading to multiple international film adaptations. Higashino, born in Osaka in 1958, initially studied electrical engineering before dedicating himself to writing, making his debut in 1985. His final novel, "Eien no Kioku," is scheduled for posthumous publication on August 5, 2026.